The Goldberg Variations

The title The Goldberg Variations not only evokes the famous music of Bach, but also the solo by Steve Paxton – an iconic moment in the history of Western dance. In the 1960s and 70s, a powerful counter movement developed against modern and classical dance, and Paxton was in the vanguard of contact improvisation in contemporary dance.

Along with Oskar Stalpaert, a ballet dancer, and accordionist Philippe Thuriot, choreographer Michiel Vandevelde works with Bach’s music and Paxton’s choreography. Three bodies, each with very different potentialities, delve into dance history and question the potential of dance today.

Oskar Stalpaert is a dancer with Platform-K, the Ghent-based company for differently abled dancers. Michiel Vandevelde has been an artist-in-residence at Kaaitheater since 2017.

Choreography : Michiel Vandevelde // Dance : Oskar Stalpaert, Michiel Vandevelde & Audrey Merilus // Music : Philippe Thuriot // Dramaturgy : Kristof van Baarle // Scenography : Michiel Vandevelde, supported by Tom Callemin // Costumes : Tutia Schaad // Costume assistant : Camil Krings // Technique : Maxim Van Meerhaeghe & Ferre Carron // Light advice : Tom Bruwier

Production : Platform-K // Co-production : Vooruit & Kaap // Support de : Vlaamse Overheid, Nationale Loterij, Stad Gent, Konekt, de Koning Boudewijnstichting // Thanks to : Campo & Kaaitheater

Photo : Tom Callemin